Market is seen opening lower, tracking mixed cues from Asian markets. Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 8.50 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian shares were mixed as investors adopted a cautious stance prior to the Federal Reserve's policy decision and further news on US-China trade talks.

US stock benchmarks on Tuesday closed mostly lower in a volatile session, as investors digested news on trade and awaited a policy decision by the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee due Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

Chinese officials have reportedly shifted their stance on trade because after agreeing to changes to their intellectual-property policies, they have not received assurances from the Trump administration that tariffs imposed on their exports would be lifted, curbing hopes of a deal.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reportedly plan to travel to China next week for another round of trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

On the economic front, GST Council in the 34th meeting held on 19 March 2019 at New Delhi discussed the operational details for implementation of the recommendations made by the council in its 33rd meeting for lower effective GST rate of 1% in case of affordable houses and 5% on construction of houses other than affordable house.

In respect of ongoing projects, the promoters shall be given a one -time option to continue to pay tax at the old rates (effective rate of 8% or 12% with input tax credits, or ITC) on ongoing projects (buildings where construction and actual booking have both started before 1 April 2019) which have not been completed by 31 March 2019. The option shall be exercised once within a prescribed time frame and where the option is not exercised within the prescribed time limit, new rates shall apply.

Benchmarks may open with small gains19-Mar-2019 (07:52)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 12 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading lower ahead of a closely watched meeting by the US Federal Reserve set to kick off later in the day.

US stocks closed modestly higher Monday, as investors prepared for a meeting of Federal Reserve policy makers to begin Tuesday. The Fed is expected to leave rates unchanged when it concludes a two-day meeting on Wednesday. Investors will focus on the statement issued by policy makers.

On the US data front, the National Association of Home Builders' monthly confidence index was unchanged at a seasonally-adjusted reading of 62.

In Europe, Britain's parliament banned another vote on same Brexit deal. Prime Minister Theresa May's third attempt to get parliament to back her Brexit deal were thrown into further turmoil on Monday when the speaker of parliament ruled that she could not put her divorce deal to a new vote unless it was re-submitted in fundamentally different form. May has only two days to win approval for her deal to leave the European Union if she wants to go to a summit with the bloc's leaders on Thursday with something to offer them in return for more time.

US stocks closed higher Friday, buoyed by encouraging headlines on US-China trade negotiations and Chinese assurances of forthcoming economic stimulus. According to reports, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang expressed optimism that a trade deal between China and the US can be achieved that suits both parties.

China will stick to its current targeted economic support strategy and resist the temptation to engage in large-scale stimulus like quantitative easing or a massive expansion in public spending, Li Keqiang added.

On the US data front, the New York Fed's Empire State index fell to a reading of 3.7 in March from 8.8 in the prior month. US industrial production rose by 0.1% in February. January's figure, however, was raised to show a 0.4% drop. Job openings in the US rose to 7.58 million in January, the third-highest level on record, according to the Labor Department.

Consumer sentiment rose in March to 97.8 from 93.8 in February, according to a preliminary reading of the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index.

India's trade deficit plunged 22% to 17-month low of $9.60 billion in February 2019 from $12.30 billion in February 2018. Merchandise exports rose 2.4% to $26.67 billion in February 2019 over a year ago. Merchandise imports dipped 5.4% to $36.26 billion. Oil imports declined 8.1% to $9.38 billion, while the non-oil imports also fell 4.4% to $26.89 billion in February 2019 over February 2018. The share of oil imports in total imports was 25.9% in February 2019, compared with 26.6% in February 2018.

Stocks may open on positive note15-Mar-2019 (08:30)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 20 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian markets were trading higher Friday as China took a step to appease U.S. trade negotiators. Chinese legislators on Friday approved a new law against the forced transfer of technology by foreign companies, which has been a major complaint by the U.S. and other countries. The move was intended to smooth the path to a trade deal, but it's unclear if it will be enough.

A meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be delayed until at least April, as per reports, indicating that a bilateral trade deal will not be finalized this month.

Meanwhile, the U.K. Parliament voted to request an extension of the March 29 Brexit deadline to June 30 if lawmakers can agree to a withdrawal deal by March 20. Thursday's vote comes after Prime Minister Theresa May failed to secure support for her revised Brexit plan and lawmakers on Wednesday ruled out a no-deal exit.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1,482.99 crore yesterday, 14 March 2019, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 817.77 crore yesterday, 14 March 2019, as per provisional data.

Among corporate news, Tech Mahindra's arm acquired 100% stake in Japan's K-Vision for $1.5 million. The target is engaged in providing network services for mobile communication carriers in Japan. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 14 March 2019.

Reliance Industries (RIL) will be watched. Brookfield has filed the preliminary placement memorandum, in terms of which India Infrastructure Trust, an InvIT set up by Brookfield as sponsor and 90% investor, will invest Rs 13,000 crore to acquire the East West Pipeline (Pipeline). As a part of the transaction, the InvIT will acquire 100% equity interest in Pipeline Infrastructure Private Limited (PIPL) which currently owns and operates the Pipeline.

RIL's current investment in preference shares valued at Rs 4,000 crore will continue and will be converted into equity at the end of 20 years. Further at the end of 20 years, RIL has the right to acquire equity shares of PIPL held by the InvIT at an equity value of Rs 50 crore. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 14 March 2019.

Market may open lower 14-Mar-2019 (08:26)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 25 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading mixed on Thursday as investors awaited data from China for clues about the health of the world's second largest economy. U.S. stocks closed higher Wednesday, as investors parsed economic data that included stronger-than-expected durable goods orders and further signs that inflation remains subdued.

The Commerce Department report also showed core capital orders, a key measure of business investment, rising 0.8% in January after falling sharply the two months previous.

In Europe, the U.K. Parliament on Wednesday voted against a no-deal Brexit, a day after lawmakers rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's revised Brexit deal in a 242-391 vote. On Thursday, they will decide on whether to request an extension to the March 29 deadline to reach a trade agreement with the European Union.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 2,722.28 crore yesterday, 13 March 2019, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 1,508.14 crore yesterday, 13 March 2019, as per provisional data.

Among corporate news, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries said that its wholly owned subsidiary has increased its shareholding in PJSC Biosintez, Russia, by purchasing 33,958 shares (30221 ordinary shares and 3737 preferred shares) equivalent to 11.86% of PJSC Biosintez under mandatory tender offer. Post completion of this purchase of shares, the total holding of wholly owned subsidiary company increased from 85.10% to 96.96% in PJSC Biosintez. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 13 March 2019.

Market may open lower 13-Mar-2019 (08:17)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 26 points at the opening bell. Market will react industrial production and inflation data released by the government after market hours yesterday, 12 March 2019.

India's industrial production (base year 2011-12=100) rose at slower pace of 1.7% in January 2019, compared with 2.6% growth recorded in December 2018. The industrial production growth for December 2018 has been revised upwards from 2.4% increase reported provisionally.

The all-India general CPI inflation rose to 2.57% in February 2019 (new base 2012=100), compared with 1.97% in January 2019. The corresponding provisional inflation rate for rural area was 1.81% and urban area 3.43% in February 2019 as against 1.22% and 2.91% in January 2019. The core CPI inflation eased to 5.29% in February 2019 compared with 5.35% in January 2019.

Overseas, most Asian stocks were trading lower as investors awaited another make-or-break parliamentary vote on Brexit. US stocks closed mostly higher Tuesday, led by the health care and utilities sectors.

In US economic data, the consumer-price index rose 0.2% in February following three months of no change, the Labor Department said. Core prices, which strip out volatile changes in the cost of food an energy rose 0.1%. Year-over-year, overall inflation fell from growth of 1.6% in January to 1.5%, while annual core inflation fell from 2.2% to 2.1%.

In Europe, UK lawmakers once again rejected Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal. Parliament will vote later Wednesday on whether to leave the EU with no deal and if that fails, another vote on Thursday to decide whether to extend the Brexit deadline.

Back home, key equity indices reported sharp gains yesterday, 12 March 2019 on strong buying demand in index pivotals. The Sensex rose 481.56 points or 1.30% to settle at 37,535.66, its highest closing level since 17 September 2018. The Nifty 50 index rose 133.15 points or 1.19% to settle at 11,301.20, its highest closing level since 17 September 2018.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 2477.72 crore yesterday, 12 March 2019, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 990.48 crore yesterday, 12 March 2019, as per provisional data.

Indices may open on a firm note12-Mar-2019 (08:26)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 53 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian stocks were trading higher on the back of a strong performance in U.S. markets overnight. U.S. stocks snapped a five-day losing streak to close higher Monday as technology shares rallied, offsetting some of the gloom from Boeing Co.'s woes after the second deadly crash in about six months involving the company's 737 Max 8 aircraft.

In US data, U.S. retail sales unexpectedly rose in January. Retail sales rose 0.2%. Data for December was revised down to show retail sales dropping 1.6% instead of tumbling 1.2% as previously reported.

In Europe, British Prime Minister Theresa May managed to secure last minute support from the EU for her Brexit deal before it goes to a crucial vote on Tuesday.

Back home, the market clocked steep gains on Monday, 11 March 2019, following the announcement of general election 2019 dates on Sunday by the Election Commission of India (EC). The Sensex rose 382.67 points or 1.04% to settle at 37,054.10, its highest closing level since 19 September 2018. The Nifty 50 index rose 132.65 points or 1.2% to settle at 11,168.05, its highest closing level since 19 September 2018.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 3810.60 crore yesterday, 11 March 2019, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 1955.55 crore yesterday, 11 March 2019, as per provisional data.

Market may open lower 11-Mar-2019 (08:27)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 35 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian stocks were trading lower. US stocks finished lower Friday for a fifth session in a row, after a disappointing jobs report and a slump in Chinese exports added to concerns about slowing global growth. The US economy created only 20,000 jobs in February, the weakest reading since September 2017.

Back home, key equity benchmarks snapped gains on Friday, 8 March 2019 after rising in past four consecutive sessions. The Sensex fell 53.99 points or 0.15% to settle at 36,671.43.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1095.06 crore on Friday, 8 March 2019 as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 470.70 crore on Friday, 8 March 2019, as per provisional data.

Among corporate news, Tata Motors group global wholesales in February 2019, including Jaguar Land Rover, were at 110,262 units, lower by 9%, as compared to February 2018. Global wholesales of all Tata Motors' commercial vehicles and Tata Daewoo range in February 2019 were at 84,512 units, lower by 9% over February 2018. Global wholesales of all passenger vehicles in February 2019 were at 67,964 units, lower by 9%, compared to February 2018. Global wholesales for Jaguar Land Rover were 49,695 vehicles. Jaguar wholesales for the month were 14,926 vehicles, while Land Rover wholesales for the month were 34,769 vehicles. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 8 March 2019.

Shares may decline on negative global cues08-Mar-2019 (07:54)

Market is seen opening lower tracking negative leads from other Asian markets and overnight slide on the Wall Street. Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 34 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian shares declined on the back of an overnight slide in the US market, as investors grappled with fresh concerns over the state of the global economy.

US stocks finished lower for a fourth straight session Thursday on mounting evidence of a slowing global economy. The European Central Bank (ECB) cut its growth forecast for 2019 and announced a fresh round of stimulus to aid banks in the region. ECB President Mario Draghi said the central bank cut its growth estimate to 1.1%, down from a 1.7% expansion forecast released in December. The ECB's announcements come amid lingering concerns over a possible economic slowdown across the globe.

On the US data front, first-time unemployment claims fell to 223,000 in the week ended March 2, from 226,000 the previous seven days. The productivity of the US workforce rose at an annual pace of 1.9% in the fourth quarter of 2018, the Labor Department reported.

The BSE Sensex ended with modest gains while the Nifty ended with tiny gains Thursday, 7 March 2019. The barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, rose 89.32 points or 0.24% to settle at 36,725.42. The Nifty 50 index rose 5.20 points or 0.05% to settle at 11,058.20.

Stocks may open with small gains07-Mar-2019 (08:05)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 6 points at the opening bell. Gains may get capped due to mixed cues from other Asian markets.

Overseas, Asian shares were mixed on Thursday, following a third consecutive day of losses on Wall Street as investors tracked US-China trade negotiations.

US stocks slid for a third consecutive session on Wednesday, as investors continue to wait for news of a trade deal between the US and China.

Payroll-service company ADP estimated that the US private sector added 183,000 jobs in February, according to FactSet.

US data released Wednesday showed the country's trade deficit soaring to a 10-year high of $59.8 billion in December. The US trade deficit soared to a 10-year high in 2018 of $621 billion, the Commerce Department said.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in its latest interim economic outlook said that the global economy is slowing and major risks persist, with growth weakening much more than expected in Europe. The OECD projects that the global economy will grow by 3.3% in 2019 and 3.4% in 2020. The outlook and projections cover all G20 economies. Downward revisions from the previous Economic Outlook in November 2018 are particularly significant for the euro area, notably Germany and Italy, as well as for the United Kingdom, Canada and Turkey.

Indian economic growth is seen improving to 7.2% in 2019 and 7.3% in 2020 after growing by 7% in 2018. However, the projections for 2019 and 2020 have been trimmed by 0.10% compared to the November estimate by the OECD. Business confidence and investment remain strong, and activity should benefit from easing financial conditions, lower oil prices, accommodative fiscal policy and recent structural reforms.

Domestic stocks logged gains for third consecutive session on 6 March 2019. The barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, rose 193.56 points or 0.53% to settle at 36,636.10. The Nifty 50 index rose 65.55 points or 0.60% to settle at 11,053.

Market may extend gains06-Mar-2019 (08:06)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 24 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, shares in Asia were mixed, following an overnight slip on Wall Street as investors watched developments on the US-China trade front.

US stocks finished lower Monday, as investors turned cautious after initially cheering reports that the US and China were close to completing a landmark trade deal. Profit booking on the back of a two-month rally from December lows also weighed on sentiment.

On the US data front, the Institute for Supply Management's survey of senior executives at banks, retailers, restaurants and the like rose to 59.7% last month from 56.7% in January.

Domestic stocks logged sharp gains yesterday, 5 March 2019, on broad based buying support. The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was strong. The barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, rose 378.73 points or 1.05% to settle at 36,442.54. The Nifty 50 index rose 123.95 points or 1.14% to settle at 10,987.45.

On the economic front, the unemployment rate in February 2019 was 7.2%. This was higher than the 7.1% unemployment rate in January 2019 and much higher than the 5.9% unemployment rate in February 2018 or the 5% in February 2017, according to data compiled by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) that was released on Tuesday.

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 15.50 points at the opening bell on weak global cues.

Overseas, Asian stocks declined Tuesday following an overnight slip on Wall Street. China cut its economic growth target and pledged measures to support the economy amid growing challenges from rising debt and a dispute over trade and technology with the United States. China cut its growth target for this year to 6-6.5%, from around 6.5% last year.

US stocks declined on Monday, as investors turned cautious after initially cheering reports that the US and China were close to completing a landmark trade deal. Concerns that stocks are becoming too expensive on the back of a two-month rally from December lows also weighed on sentiment.

The US Commerce Department said that construction spending fell by 0.6% in December.

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 5 points at the opening bell.

On the macro front, India's gross domestic product (GDP) growth moderated to six-quarters low of 6.6% in Q3 of 2018-19 from 7.0% growth recorded in the previous quarter and 7.7% improvement in the corresponding quarter last year. Quarterly Gross Value Added (GVA) growth also eased to 6.3% in Q3 of 2018-19 from 6.8% in Q2 of 2018-19 and 7.3% in Q3FY of 2017-18.

The GDP growth estimate for 2018-19 is revised downward to 7.0% from 7.2% growth estimated at first advances estimate level released in January 2019. The GDP growth for agriculture sector is expected to ease to 2.7% and services sector to 7.4% in 2018-19, while industrial sector growth estimate to accelerate to 7.7% in 2018-19.

The output of eight core industries comprising 40.27%of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose 1.8% in January 2019 over January 2018. Its cumulative output increased 4.5% in April to January 2018-19.

Overseas, Asian shares rose on Friday, driven by a rally in Chinese markets after index publisher MSCI announced it would boost the proportion of mainland shares in its global benchmarks. U.S. stocks on Thursday finished near their lows after data showed U.S. economic growth came in a better-than-expected rate in the fourth quarter.

Back home, domestic stocks ended with small losses yesterday, 28 February 2019 after a volatile session. Intraday volatility was high as traders rolled over positions in the F&O segment from the near month February 2019 series to March 2019 series. The February 2019 F&O contracts expired yesterday, 28 February 2019. The Sensex fell 37.99 points or 0.11% to settle at 35,867.44. The Nifty 50 index fell 14.15 points or 0.13% to settle at 10,792.50.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 3210.60 crore yesterday, 28 February 2019, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 5240.62 crore yesterday, 28 February 2019, as per provisional data.

Among corporate news, Bharti Airtel said that its board approved raising upto Rs 32,000 crore through rights issue of upto Rs 25,000 crore and perpetual bond with equity credit upto Rs 7000 crore. Rights issue price is set at Rs 220 per fully paid equity share. The company will issue 19 rights shares for every 67 equity shares held by eligible shareholders as on the record date. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 28 February 2019.

Kotak Mahindra Bank revised the marginal cost of funds based lending rate downwards by up to 5 basis points (bps) with effect from 1 March 2019 for various tenors. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 28 February 2019.

HDFC Bank said it will buy a 9.11% stake in CSC E-Governance Services. The acquisition, for Rs 14.62 crore, which HDFC Bank termed as a strategic investment, will be on cash basis. The bank executed an agreement for subscribing to 37,993 equity shares of face value of Rs 1,000 each to be issued by CSC E- Governance Services India at Rs 3,848 per equity share. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 28 February 2019.

Market may remain volatile ahead of F&O expiry28-Feb-2019 (08:28)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 59 points at the opening bell. Trading could be volatile as traders roll over positions in the F&O segment from the near month February 2019 series to March 2019 series. The February 2019 F&O contracts expire today, 28 February 2019.

On the economic front, the government will announce data on infrastructure output for January today, 28 February 2019. The government will also announce data on fourth quarter gross domestic product (GDP) today, 28 February 2019. The Indian economy advanced 7.1% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2018, well below 8.2% in the previous period.

Overseas, Asian stocks are trading lower on Thursday after cautious comments from US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer dented some of the recent optimism towards China-US trade relations. US President Donald Trump is holding a high-stakes summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi.

U.S. stocks bounced off intraday lows but still closed mostly lower Wednesday as investors focused on separate congressional testimonies from U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer on U.S.-China trade negotiations and a second day of Congressional hearings featuring Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell.

Powell testified in front of the House, a day after he affirmed the central bank's wait-and-see approach to rate increases, citing slower global growth and its effect on the U.S. Lighthizer appeared before the House Ways and Means Committee on U.S.-China trade to provide more insight into the progress of negotiations between the world's two largest economies. He also said the U.S. plans to officially abandon an increase in tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods to 25%, from 10% currently.

In economic data, the U.S. trade deficit rose 12.8% in December to $79.5 billion, the Census Bureau said. Pending home sales jumped 4.6% to a reading of 103.2 in January, the National Association of Realtors said. Sales were 2.3% lower than a year ago, making January the 13th straight month of year-over-year declines.

In Europe, investors have been keeping tabs on Britain's tumultuous exit from the European Union with a March 29 deadline looming. British Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday said she would look to delay Brexit if a departure deal isn't agreed upon.

Back home, key equity indices ended with small losses yesterday, 27 February 2019 after witnessing wild intraday swings. The Sensex ended below the psychological 36,000 level after moving above and below that level in intraday trade. The Nifty held above 10,800 mark. Intraday volatility was high amid escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. The Sensex fell 68.28 points or 0.19% to settle at 35,905.43.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 423.04 crore yesterday, 27 February 2019 as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 66.81 crore yesterday, 27 February 2019, as per provisional data.

Among corporate news, Wipro and Alight Solutions, a leader in technology-enabled health, wealth and Human Capital Management (HCM) solutions, have agreed to expand their relationship by signing a definitive agreement to divest Wipro's Workday and Cornerstone OnDemand business to Alight for cash consideration of up to $110 million, of which $100 million would be payable at closing and the balance, $10 million, would be a deferred consideration payable at the end of 12 months based on the achievement of performance targets. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 27 February 2019.

Stocks may open on flat note 27-Feb-2019 (08:26)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 3 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, most Asian stocks were trading higher Wednesday. U.S. stocks closed lower Tuesday after weaving in and out of positive territory all session following Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's congressional testimony, during which he reiterated the central bank's wait-and-see approach.

Investors have been focused on U.S.-China trade developments after Trump in recent days indicated that he was willing to extend a March 2 deadline for increasing tariffs on some $200 billion in Chinese goods.

In economic data, Consumer confidence surged in February, rising for the first time in four months, as the Conference Board's consumer confidence index rose to 131.4, up from 121.7 in January.

Back home, the market ended the volatile session with modest losses yesterday, 26 February 2019 amid rising geo-political concerns. The Sensex settled below the psychological 36,000 level after moving above and below that level in intraday trade. The Nifty held above 10,800 mark. The Sensex fell 239.67 points or 0.66% to settle at 35,973.71. The Nifty 50 index fell 44.80 points or 0.41% to settle at 10,835.30.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1674.17 crore yesterday, 26 February 2019 as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 720.27 crore yesterday, 26 February 2019, as per provisional data.

A weak opening on the cards26-Feb-2019 (08:27)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could slide 95 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian stocks are trading lower. U.S. stocks came off earlier highs but still closed higher Monday after President Donald Trump said that he would delay additional China tariffs, and that there had been substantial progress in trade talks over the weekend.

Trump said late Sunday that he would extend a March 1 deadline for increasing tariffs on Chinese imports. He cited substantial progress across key topics such as intellectual property, technology transfers, agriculture and currency, and said if that continues, he will meet with President Xi Jinping at Mar-a-Lago to wrap up a deal.

Back home, domestic stocks logged strong gains on first trading day of the week yesterday, 25 February 2019 led by steady buying demand in index pivotals. Positive global stocks boosted investors sentiment. The Sensex rose 341.90 points or 0.95% to settle at 36,213.38. The Nifty 50 index rose 88.45 points or 0.82% to settle at 10,880.10.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 2134.35 crore yesterday, 25 February 2019 as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth a net Rs 1746.40 crore yesterday, 25 February 2019, as per provisional data.

Lupin announced that it has received approval for its Methylprednisolone tablets USP, 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, 16 mg and 32 mg, from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Lupin's Methylprednisolone tablet USP is the generic version of Pharmacia and Upjohn Company's Medrol Tablet. It is indicated to treat Endocrine Disorders, Rheumatic Disorders, Collagen Diseases, Dermatologic Diseases, Allergic States, Ophthalmic Diseases, Respiratory Diseases, Hematologic Disorders, Neoplastic Diseases, Edematous States, Gastrointestinal Diseases, Acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement. Methylprednisolone tablets had annual sales of approximately $114.3 million in the US (IQVIA MAT December 2018). The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 25 February 2019.

Market may open on a flat note 25-Feb-2019 (08:28)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 3 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, stocks in Asia traded higher on Monday amid trade optimism after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a postponement of a closely-watched deadline on March 1. US stocks closed higher Friday, thanks to optimism over U.S.-China trade talks.

U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly announced Sunday evening that America is planning to delay a set of additional tariffs on Chinese goods that were due to kick in on March 1. Trump cited substantial progress in bilateral talks between the world's two largest economies, including intellectual property protection and technology transfer issues. As a result, the president said he would suspend the new levies, however he did not state a new deadline.

Back home, the Sensex and the Nifty ended near flat line on Friday, 22 February 2019 amid mixed cues from other Asian shares. The Sensex fell 26.87 points or 0.07% to settle at 35,871.48. The Nifty 50 index rose 1.80 points or 0.02% to settle at 10,791.65.

The trading activity on that day showed that the foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 6311.01 crore on Friday, 22 February 2019, as per provisional data released by the stock exchanges. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 838.88 crore on Friday, 22 February 2019, as per provisional data.

Among corporate news, Kotak Mahindra Bank will be watched. ING Group on Friday, 22 February 2019, sold its entire 3.06% stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank through two block deals on the National Stock Exchange. With ING Group's exit, Mark Newman, a non-executive non-independent director at Kotak Mahindra Bank, has resigned with immediate effect.

According to exchange data, ING Mauritius Investments sold 2.92 crore shares of Kotak Mahindra Bank at Rs 1,228.51 per share. It sold another 2.92 crore shares at Rs 1,225.14 each. Both the deals took place on NSE on Friday, 22 February 2019.

Realty shares will be watched. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council in its 33rd meeting held on 24 February 2019, recommended that GST shall be levied at effective GST rate of 5%, without input tax credit (ITC), on residential properties outside affordable segment. GST shall be levied at effective GST of 1%, without ITC, on affordable housing properties. The new rate shall become applicable from 1 April 2019, Ministry of Finance said in a statement.

Negative global cues may trigger selling 22-Feb-2019 (08:01)

Market is seen opening lower, tracking negative leads from Asian markets and overnight decline on the Wall Street. Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 21 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian shares declined Friday, following a negative closing in the US stocks after the release of a stream of disappointing global economic data on Thursday. Investors continue to closely watch high-level talks between US and Chinese trade negotiators in Washington, with little more than a week left before a US-imposed deadline for an agreement expires, triggering higher tariffs.

US stocks finished lower Thursday as fresh economic data out of Europe and Japan suggest further slowing in global growth. Concerns about slowing global growth were underscored by the release of surveys from Europe and Japan that showed manufacturing contracting in February, with export-dependent German manufacturers reporting the worst drop in activity in more than six years.

In US, December's durable goods data showed a surprise slowdown in business spending. The Philadelphia Fed manufacturing survey fell to minus 4.1, the first negative number since May 2016 and the biggest drop since August 2011. Markit PMI data also showed manufacturing activity at the slowest pace in 17 months.

Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday released the minutes of the Monetary Policy Committee's meeting held on February 5-7. Governor Shaktikanta Das has said that the neutral stance of the central bank will provide flexibility and the room to address challenges to sustained growth of the Indian economy over the coming months, as long as the inflation outlook remains benign.

In his statement, Das said that global growth was losing traction amidst lingering trade tensions and uncertainty around Brexit. On the positive side, crude oil prices remain soft, though the benefit for net exports could be restricted due to slowing global demand. GDP growth for 2019-20 is projected at 7.4% - in the range of 7.2-7.4% in H1, and 7.5% in Q3 - with risks evenly balanced.

Das noted that the CPI inflation print of December at 2.2% continued to surprise on the downside. The RBI Governor also believed that the outlook for food inflation was expected to be benign in the backdrop of excess domestic supply conditions in many food items. CPI inflation is projected at below 4% in the remaining four quarters - 2.8% in Q4:2018-19, 3.2-3.4% in H1:2019-20 and 3.9% in Q3:2019-20 - with risks broadly balanced.

Shares may slide at opening bell21-Feb-2019 (07:59)

Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could fall 26 points at the opening bell on negative cues from other Asian shares.

Overseas, Asian shares were trading lower on Thursday. US stock indices ended the choppy session moderately higher Wednesday, following the release of minutes from the US Federal Reserve's January meeting.

Fed minutes affirmed it would be patient on interest rate rises. Fed highlighted downside risks, including the possibilities of a sharper-than-expected slowdown in global economic growth, particularly in China and Europe, a rapid waning of fiscal policy stimulus, or a further tightening of financial market conditions.

The minutes showed extensive discussion of market conditions, particularly on the emphasis that Fed actions were having on prices of risky assets like stocks and corporate bonds. The Fed also judged that a patient approach to interest rate hikes would be prudent as it continued to weigh various headwinds to growth.

On the trade front, President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the US may not increase tariffs on Chinese goods as scheduled after March 1, but he did raise the specter of addressing auto tariffs in Europe.

On the economic front, the government on Wednesday decided to infuse Rs 48,239 crore in 12 public sector banks as part of the recapitalisation plan, which will help them maintain regulatory capital requirements and finance growth plans.

Market may open higher20-Feb-2019 (08:04)

Domestic shares may mirror strength in other Asian stock markets. Trading of Nifty 50 index futures on the Singapore stock exchange indicates that the Nifty could rise 52 points at the opening bell.

Overseas, Asian shares traded higher on Wednesday after US-China trade talks resumed. Investors also awaited the release later on Wednesday of minutes from the US Federal Reserve's January policy-setting meeting, where policymakers took a dovish turn, effectively signaling no further rate hikes.

US stock indices held steady above the break-even line after opening lower on Tuesday. US President Donald Trump reportedly said Tuesday that trade talks with China are going well, adding the current March deadline is not a magical date. Both countries have until then to come up with a deal. Otherwise, additional US tariffs on Chinese products could take effect. Trump indicated last week, however, he would be willing to push back the deadline.

Representatives from the US and China are meeting in Washington this week to resume trade negotiations, with high level discussions set to happen later in the week, the White House said Monday. US is reportedly seeking to secure a pledge from China that it will not devalue its yuan currency as part of a trade deal.

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